On 23 October 2020, Sharon Blessing, 17, marched from the Nigerian High Commission to the Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Congo in support of #EndSars.
#EndSars is a direct appeal to the Nigerian government to disband the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) due to misconduct against citizens. Many UK protests emerged after the Lekki Toll Gate Massacre which resulted in a number of fatalities. The police unit was dissolved on 11 October 2020 however, protests still persist in hopes for further reform within Nigeria.
Interview with Sharon Blessing
Why did you choose to attend the EndSars protest?
I believe that this is an issue that has been pushed under the rug for far too long. Following all the video footage and graphic images of the horrific Lekki Toll Gate Massacre, I knew I couldn’t just sit at home and do nothing. I knew I couldn’t just live in sorrow knowing that I did nothing to represent my people and protest against their day-to-day mistreatment.
What did you hope to achieve by attending the EndSars protest?
At first, I attended the protest because I wanted to feel like I was part of the potential change to follow. I wanted to feel proud of helping to push towards the change that Nigeria truly deserves but eventually I realised the protest helped me mentally as well. Once I got there, I wanted to stay there. The feeling of being surrounded by like-minded people, who were all ready to fight for justice, is honestly empowering and enlightening. It really helped me heal.
If you could go back in time and change something about the protest, what would you change?
I don’t think I would change much. Of course, preferring more media coverage and louder megaphones will always be a demand of every protester, but I honestly believe the protest went amazingly well. It was one of the best experiences of my life.
How did the protest positively impact you?
I’d say the protest had a great impact on me, personally. It strengthened me mentally and emotionally and helped me grasp a more hopeful perspective about the future of Nigeria. The protest also inspired me to spread awareness through my own brand and platform in which I will get people to share their thoughts and opinions on the matter. I believe that acknowledging the voices of the people is the first step for change.
How did you hear about the EndSars protest?
I heard about the protests through an Instagram page called @endsarsuk . They share information about protests, prayer walks and candle light vigils - all in support of the #EndSARS movement. They’re a great resource.
What do you hope the result of the protests will be?
The most logical answer would be to say that I hope the protests create change. However, due to the severity of the issues going on in Nigeria, sometimes it can be difficult to phrase this so simply. After all, SARS related police brutality is only the tip of the huge iceberg. I want Nigeria to be great again. I hope that there will be safety for all the young people in Nigeria, I hope for eventual security from the government or even a complete reform of it. I know that the protests can achieve this. If the public continues to pressure its authorities, there won’t only be change in Nigeria, but change throughout the continent.
